The Hidden Dangers of Gas Stoves: Protecting Your Health and the Planet's

Who doesn't love cooking on gas stoves? We love the sight of fire beneath a cast-iron skillet, the ability to set precise cooking temperatures, and the convenience of quickly switching between stir-frying and gentle simmering.

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The joy of working with a gas stove is universal, whether you're a seasoned chef or an occasional cook.

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However, in the past few months, gas stoves have been feeling the heat!

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What's wrong with gas stoves?

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A study published in December 2022 found that gas stoves contribute to almost 13% of all childhood asthma cases in the U.S., making them a major source of air pollution within homes.

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Another study conducted in June 2023 warns that these appliances are even more harmful to our health than previously believed. It mentions that using gas stoves can increase indoor concentrations of benzene, which is linked to an increased risk of cancer.

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As a result, some cities and states have started phasing out new gas connections in residential buildings.

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If you have the means, you can consider replacing gas stoves with clean energy sources like induction cooktops. But don’t worry if you can’t. There are ways to mitigate potential health risks from your gas stoves at home.

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How to lower your risk if you use gas stoves

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Despite the recent findings against the negative impact of gas stoves, there are still things you can do to lower your risk:

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• Improve the ventilation in your kitchen as much as possible. Open the windows and doors or use a fan to introduce fresh air that can dilute the pollutants.
• Use an exhaust hood if available. Make sure it vents the air outside.
• Use alternatives like ovens, toasters, kettles, and microwaves when possible. This will reduce the usage of gas stoves and the emissions they produce.

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When you have the time, money, and resources, consider switching to induction cooktops.

Switching from gas stoves to induction cooktops

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Switching from gas to induction cooktops requires capping the gas line and performing some rewiring work. If you live in an apartment building or a multi-family home, it's best to check with your board before starting any work.

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In 2024, you may also qualify for rebates from the federal government as part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to cover the costs of electrical work, installation, and the purchase of an electric/induction stove.

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Use this calculator to determine your eligibility.